The Bird Babe

By jeanE

September 14, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

Ryan was exactly what I expected him to be:horrible. He was abysmal, where was Finn in all of this??? He didn’t get on the field one time, just special teams. Come on you stupid Falcons, he is way more than that, give him a shot!! You couldn’t fit him into any 4 receiver sets? It’s going to take alot for me ever to be a Matt Ryan fan, I didn’t want him hear & he hasn’t shown anything yet to make me change my mind. Chris Redman couldn’t have been any worse & might have been better. Get used to it, it’s going to be a very long season. Gross.

By Have Faith

September 14, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

jeanE, take it easy. This is going to be a long year. The Falcons themselves even admitted during the offseason that this is a rebuilding year. We will have our moments in the sun, and may even end up 7-9. I am not expecting much this year, but to write Ryan off this early isn’t fair. Peyton Manning’s numbers sucked his first year and look at him now. Next year will be different. One thing I do agree with though is the play calling was definitely suspect at times, and I also agree. Where the heck was Fin?

By gg

September 14, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

jeanE, you are an idiot. How long have you been watching football? How many times have you seen a rookie qb start in his 1st season? it’s a growing process you piece of dumb crap. Did you not see how Ryan progresses from the first half as compared to the second half? Pay attention to the game you dumbsh*t!

By Ryder

September 14, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

Have Faith, gg,

Thanks for being the only two people on this blog with common sense.

Hey Ryan haters, this is Matt Ryan’s SECOND NFL GAME! Everyone has games like this, even Peyton Manning.

My impression of this game was how Ryan got the Falcons into 8 points. Had the team remembered how to tackle then we would’ve seen what Ryan would’ve done.

I’m happy that he stepped it up and didn’t make foolish mistakes. If the throw isn’t there, it just isn’t there. Give Tampa some credit for how they played on defense. Monte Kiffin had that Tampa D-line attack that front four and Turner could never get going.

However, let’s see how he responds next week against KC. If they come out solid and get the W, then we will get a much better idea of the progression of Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons.

By Shaad

September 14, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Man I know a lot of yall not gon like me saying this but I hope if Mike Vick come back he doesn’t have to come back to this ess. I know you all don’t care but I do. Free Mike Vick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ATLplayer

September 14, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

OK stop bashing other posters…they have the right to their OWN opinion. Anyway Matt Ryan looked liked who he is, A ROOKIE! He’ll get better but it just sucks to watch him struggle badly. I think Redman would have done better but he is not the starter. The Falcons have decided Ryan will play this year and get his lumps now. His lack of arm strength did roar it’s ugly head today on his deep balls. He has to work on that. We didn’t expect them to go undefeated did we??? This is a good loss…it will keep the Falcons grounded and level headed. Get in the film room Ryan! Study, study, study!

By Bo

September 14, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

We lost, but when we got behind by seventeen points, the TEAM did not mail it in, they were fighting up until the long touchdown run. I saw some from the coach,I think there are better days ahead.

By stendec

September 14, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

JeanE is right! To the moron blogger that proclaimed no mistakes by Ryan. What were those interceptions? Chopped liver? Too many sacks by being too dumb to dispose of ball. Saw far too much of that garbage from Harrington. Try watching a game in reality not through rose-colored lenses. Ryan sucked. Plain and simple. Plus, good teams go for touchdowns NOT field goals. At least ones that give a DAMN! Ones that WANT to win. Are you related to Keith “No Tackle” Brooking by any chance?

By HJones

September 14, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

THE BROADCAST BY FOX WAS HORRIBLE. THERE ARE NO EXCUSES FOR MISSING THE START OF SO MANY PLAYS. IN FACT, ONE PLAY WAS MISSED COMPLETELY. I AM STILL DIZZY FROM ALL OF THE CAMERA MOVEMENT. IT WAS NOT A PROFESSIONAL BROADCAST.

By NYC Falcon

September 14, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

The start was terrible, and though Ryan looked bad, I thought the play calling was the main problem. What happened to pounding them with the run? We couldn’t run it up the gut, but I’d have liked to see Jerious on some wide sweeps. And when we get to 1st and goal, we shouldn’t be running the rookie QB, who has already taken enough punishment, instead of our real backs.

I did like seeing Coach Smith tell the refs how to read the rulebook. Its going to be nice to have a coach who knows something for once.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 14, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

The Falcons played well. They lost but they gave the Bucs plenty of competition. Atlanta now has something not seen here in years, a real team!

By STLfalcon

September 14, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

HJones, I couldn’t agree with you more. Horrible broadcast.

I feel as good about this loss as I guess you can. I remember the Falcons last year. There would be a quarter’s worth of effort and then holdng on for the whistle. This team took a punch in the mouth and then got up and started fighting back. If Anderson makes that tackle (I really hope I’m wrong about him being a bust - but playing the run was supposed to be his strength), then who knows - but the Falcon’s had the momentum until then. Despite Fox’s best efforts, it was a fun game to watch.

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan deserves to be criticized just like ya’ll did Vick. Ryan straight up SUCKED and he was SCARED. You could see it in his eyes, and those deep passes he threw were AWFUL. Take that Atlanta Fans, I told you to wait until he plays a real NFL Defense. I was right. He doesn’t have the arm strength. Yes!!! I love it

Also, you people are making excuses for him just like I predicted. I know Vick had ZERO excuses. He could NEVER have a bad game, but now its “Poor Matt Ryan…He’s a rookie….. blah blah blah” Like you people always said, this is the NFL, and Mr Ryan will be scrutinized. Dude’s deep passes looked like a leaf floating in the wind,lol. You people watch, Vick will redeem himself. Its going to be so awesome to watch

By nick

September 14, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Its so funny how almost every body in this collum looks at matt ryan and says that he sucks and is going to be a terrible quarterback. well put it in this perspective HE IS A ROOKIE, HE WILL MAKE HIS MISTAKES wait till his 3rd year till you can judge him. its no wonder that the falcons cant win, its because of the fake vick lovin fans that think they know this game inside in outl. if you were a true falcosn fan you would be think on the positive note and be thinking that Matt Ryan will do better next week, and that hwe will learn from his mistakes,like throwing the ball harder. what do you think NFL teams do in the 6-7 day span between games

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

The only point I try to make is that you people crucified Vick when he was here. I understand the off the field stuff, but he NEVER recieved the excuses that Ryan is getting already, which I predicted. If Ryan does well, good for him. I defend Vick for what he’s done on the field, which was give this team at least a chance to win, thats all you can really ask for. you can’t win every game, but you at least need a chance, and there is none with Ryan so I will continue to voice my opinion on him. You fans are such hypocrites. At least Mark bradley will admit that Vick was a great QB and he had very little help or good ownership moves from the front office, etc etc etc. Yeah, they treated him well when he was here, and it was because he was a great player and he made them TONS of money, and I respect that from Arthur Blank. Blank did his job, except get the right players. Vick had his faults as every player does, he wasn’t the greatest at all aspects of being a QB yet, but he was damn doing a damn good job with what he had to work with. What a coincidence, the guy that you said was “DUNN” ran all over the Falcons today. that should tell you something about the team and the organization. Peace

By Jay Black

September 14, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

His arm strength and decision making SUCKED BADLY! Overrated! Was that a duck he threw to Roddy White on the deep pass? This Ryan guy is boo boo. Peyton Manning did this, Aikman did that…..2 success stories out of 57. He’s looking alot more Leaf than Manning.

BTW…..playcalling?! What was that, a draw play on the darn 8 yard line? Mike Smith must have thought that jersey number 2 looked like a 7! WTF?!?!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 14, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

It’s obvious that Vick Jock Sniffer and others of the criminally inclined detest Matt Ryan because he’s white, he’s not a felon and he’s the quarterback. he’s doing well and Vick is playing for Leavenworth. so, get over it1 Vick wasn’t a great quarterback. Hell, he wasn’t even adequate. his last year in the NFL the Falcons had the 32nd best passing attack. Vick is history and becoming more ancient everyday. Matt Ryan will be a great quarterback and Vick, who is broke now, will be unloading trucks at Kroger!

By Jay Black

September 14, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Half the things you guys are saying he should learn as he goes, he should already know. Ya’ll are acting like he’s just seeing a football for the first time. He played pee wee, high school and at a Div. IA college. He should know when to throw the ball hard! He should know how to set his feet so he doesn’t throw pigeons. He knows he runs a 5.6 40 and he’ll only run 3 yards on a 3rd and 6! He should know his physical limits already.

And Jamaal Anderson is starring in his own mini-series every Sunday for the next 4 months. It’s called “Garbage”!!

By Falclowns R Back

September 14, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

“its no wonder that the falcons cant win, its because of the fake vick lovin fans that think they know this game inside in outl.” By nick

So you blame this horrendous road loss on Vick fans who weren’t at the game - come again??? THE FALCLOWNS R BACK!!!

By Ahill

September 14, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

Tell your mother to stop stealing off Kroger trucks Calhoun. Do not worry about Vick. He will have the chance to make money again playing football. Matt Ryan will be a bust and Vick will play for another team and be a success. They will talk about his grat comeback back to the NFL and Atlanta will be mad because Matt Ryan has no talent. Who cares if Vick is a felon, so is Martha Stewart. Being a felon can be a good thing for some.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 14, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

Being a felon can be a good thing for some.

Is it a good thing for you Ahole?

By Falclowns R Back

September 14, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

History has shown that men can bounce back from felonies and acheive great things. It would be nice to see the Falcons brass and fans welcome Vick back with open arms and reap the rewards of redemption and resurgence but that’s wishful thinking… Here we go Falclowns!!! Here we go!!! :D

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 14, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

Foul, you must be insane! Why would anyone want an inept felon back here? He won’t even be able to catch on with oakland!

By SHADE OF GRAY

September 14, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

The Falcons make my heart bleed….but there are two things that keep me happy: (1)Vick sucks and will never be back and (2) Jellybelly Jones of LA Dodgers has had such a terrible year. His injury kind of seems like poetic justice. It makes my day. Hope you had a great day too.

By Vick Supporter

September 14, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

“History has shown that men can bounce back from felonies and acheive great things. It would be nice to see the Falcons brass and fans welcome Vick back with open arms and reap the rewards of redemption and resurgence but that’s wishful thinking… Here we go Falclowns!!! Here we go!!! :D”

Great comment. the truth

By Jay Black

September 14, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this

BTW, Jesus couldn’t pass behind this OL! Now go ahead and make that excuse for Ryan.

By greatone

September 15, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

Vick supporter your a idiot. Vick still as state charges to face, which is up to 10 years in prison. Get over that piece of garbage. Go head blame the white QB. The whole team played like sh@t today. The OL was awful today. The Defense gave up. The receivers looked like last years receivers. Yes, he did overthrow them a lot, however there was some balls that should have been caught. They can’t win every game. I knew all the vick supporters would pull this sh@t. I remember when vick played against bucs. Out of about the 6 or 8 times he played them he was shut down in almost every game except one game. I never saw vick change plays at the line. He was to damn stupid to change plays, ryan learned more about the offense then vick learned the whole time he played for the falcons. Have a great week all you vick supporters that are just as racist as Oprah and Tyler Perry. You can all Fu@$ off

By greatone

September 15, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

Vick supporter your a idiot. Vick still as state charges to face, which is up to 10 years in prison. Get over that piece of garbage. Go head blame the white QB. The whole team played like sh@t today. The OL was awful today. The Defense gave up. The receivers looked like last years receivers. Yes, he did overthrow them a lot, however there was some balls that should have been caught. They can’t win every game. I knew all the vick supporters would pull this sh@t. I remember when vick played against bucs. Out of about the 6 or 8 times he played them he was shut down in almost every game except one game. I never saw vick change plays at the line. He was to damn stupid to change plays, ryan learned more about the offense then vick learned the whole time he played for the falcons. Have a great week all you vick supporters that are just as racist as Oprah and Tyler Perry. You can all Fu@$ off

By Greatness

September 15, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

Vick supporter what are you smoking. Vick had a lot of horrible games against the BUCs,are did you forget that. Stop smoking that s**! The team played terrible in the 1st half not just Ryan. I get it blame the white man! Vick messed up not anyone else. Remember he still has state charges to face. The next balls he plays with will be bubba’s in state prison for about years I hope. This is a team sport. The Falcons as a team well rebound next week.

By Manny

September 15, 2008 4:12 AM | Link to this

As I’ve said during preseason, a good Cover 2 will give Matt Ryan trouble. And it did. He did get better, but the Cover 2 tightens in the Red zone, so the Falcons couldn’t get a touchdown.

That’s why I said in the beginning that he shouldn’t start so soon. The game has been played. The tape is circulating to the coaches as we speak. And the Defensive Coordinators around the league knows that they can cheat their safeties up for run defense and Matt Ryan can’t beat them.

Oh, and for the record, the Bucs’ secondary isn’t very good anymore.

But, if Matt Ryan survives this season without mental damage, he’s going to be a good NFL QB. If he survives.

By Manny

September 15, 2008 4:33 AM | Link to this

I have to respond to the Greatone

Please don’t respond to things that you may think is racism with racist comments that are erroneous. Matt Ryan cannot be even compared to Mike Vick and his performances are not even on the same plane.

Mike Vick is the type of player that can beat you with his arm and his legs. He’s not a traditional QB. Plus, his coaches are different. Matt Ryan’s coaches are much better than anything that Vick had. So therefore, he couldn’t audible because it wasn’t allowed.

Oh and this Bucs team isn’t the same as the Bucs teams that Vick played against. the WRs aren’t the same. The WRs are much better now. They were making plays yesterday. Robinson made some spectacular catches for Ryan.

The bottom line is this: the Bucs gameplanned to eliminate the big runs by moving the safeties up to provide rush defense support. Therefore, they eliminated the potency of the Falcons running game because they had support both on inside and outside gaps. They also mostly rushed 4 guys and they relied heavily on their corners to make plays against out WRs.

Therefore we had only one big option: to throw either the deep ball- one-on-one, or to pick them apart by hitting midrange passes via slants to the middle of the field. There are gaps in Cover 2 that is traditionally around 7-to 10 yards. Matt Ryan just couldn’t make the throws.

That’s the brutal, honest truth. We can debate about the merits of Vick, his charges, his QB performance, etc. but if Vick was here, the game would have been different: Different packages, different coaching strategies, different personnel, etc. Oh, and for the record, Monte Kiffin would have just ran more linebacker blitzes up the middle to make Vick run to the edge, where the Bucs’ defensive speed is evident. Like they did the last few times against the Falcons.

By bigman

September 15, 2008 6:25 AM | Link to this

Matt is terrible! 39% completion! He sucks! THE OLINE SUCKS!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 15, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this

Mike Vick couldn’t audible because no one could understand him! Coach Reeves got him help with his speech but it didn’t help very much. Vick is in Leavenworth Prison, convicted of a felony. He’s not here and he’ll never play in the NFL again! Therefore, stop your whining about that dog killin’, drug smokin’, lyin’ criminal. He’s gone and he’s going to stay gone!

By George Holman

September 15, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

Everybody relax. Ryan is the real deal and he will get it right, but probably not this year. We are on the right track.

By henra chennault

September 15, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

I love vick and i hope to see him come back, but there are people out there who wishes bad on his life and thats not right everybody gets a second chance even vick, and for matt, he’s good, but he’s about to see how bad the WR are and the online, they will need his career before he does.

By TheCutMan

September 15, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

None of you know horrible until you check out the next opponent: My KC Chiefs with a QB stable that is beyond third rate.

Be very thankful you have Matt Ryan as he will develop and lead your team to future success. In KC, the dark ages have decended.

By PMA

September 15, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Now we judge quarterback on hanging in there. Good for the falcons, showing poise does not win games at this point. Coaching staff grade F+. Fat boy is to big to hit the hole. Game is different when you are not blocking 270lbs linemans as was the problem with Detroit. t

By lloyd

September 15, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

henra chennault The way Matt was throwing the receivers will never be exposed. I can see now that this be a season of excuses being made for Matt performance.

By Milton

September 15, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Days like this happens to the best of QB’s For this to happen to Ryan was a good thing. One week of play does not make you a superstar, and we all know Tampa bay has made Vick and other QB’s look bad in the league especially,if you are a rookie.This will make Ryan a better QB for the Falcons. Look for better perperations from the falcons, and Matt Ryan, and know, what teams (like the Bucks) who always had the Falcons in their pockets for many years. “Go Falcons”

By Cut Jamaal Anderson Now

September 15, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

Can we please bench or cut Jamaal Anderson now so we don’t have to watch his sorry arrss?? Nice “ole” on the Earnest Graham TD- can’t even be considered an arm tackle since he whiffed completely. That was one of the worst efforts I’ve ever seen from a #1 pick who has yet to even smell a sack. What a wasted pick! Meanwhile the Bucs #1 pick Gaines Adams ate us up.. What did the Falcons former mgt see in this joker?

By Darrin "The Vent King"

September 15, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

Wow. Anyone still calling Atlanta “the city too busy to hate” obviously never read a Falcon blog. As for the game, hey c’mon this was the Bucs people. They’ve owned us for the longest and you all go “I told you so” when our rookie qb struggles against them? That’s like saying “I told you the sun was going to rise this morning, told ya!” Get real- Stevie Wonder could have seen a game like this coming. Either way, I believe games like this is what is either going to make or break Matt Ryan. It’s wayyyyy too early to make that call. It was just his 2nd NFL start- you knew there were going to be games like this. I say wait and look at the whole body of his work over the course of the season and then make a judgement. You may want to even wait til the middle of next season really unless he just stinks it all the way up. All this “well so and so was criticized really hard after his 1st start” and “that’s what you get Atlanta” is childish really. Are you a Falcon fan or in love with one guy and hellbent on being an antagonist every chance you get? If you hate the Falcons over what happened with that one guy, just go and cheer for another team. Why sit here and go on and on and on about something that is a done deal? You think you’re the only Falcon fan that used to be a fan of his? Diff is, we were fans of the TEAM too and you obviously are not anymore if ever. He is not here, and its not the Atlanta fans’ fault- it’s his so don’t hate on us for moving on from a situation none of us have control over. Anyway, every qb, from MV7 to Peyton to Joe Montana has had struggles their 1st year starting- Matt Ryan will be no different. Just hang in there fellas, this former MV7 fan AND Falcon fan hopes Matty Ice battles through this, takes his lumps like a man, learns from this, and gets better for the future. Its called growing pains- hang in there dude.

GO FALCONS!!!

By Keeping It Real

September 15, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Everyone will stack the line because Ryan has no arm to go deep. It is obvious as the nose on your face. Do not be surprised if they lose to the Chiefs. If Turner can not run the ball, it will be a long day on Sunday. The OL looks the same to me…..bad. How many times did the full back have to pull back to protect Ryan. He cannot lead Turner if there are two defensive guys stacking each hole. The short passes work if Ryan has the time. Thats all he can do….throw short passes. When the Falcons do get to the red zone, they will not score touchdowns…only field goals. Ryan looks like a wall street broker instead of a QB. We all know what is happening on wall street.

By Marie

September 15, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

To all you guys and girls that believe that Vick will never play for the Falcons or in the NFL ever again; please do us Vick supporters one favor. I want all of you to contact the front office of the Falcons or send Arthur Blank an email or letter requesting that he fully release Michael Vick from his contract without any conditions. And tell all of your family and friends to do the same and let’s get a ground swell of you Falcon loving, Vick hating fans to pressure Arthur Blank to RELEASE THE MAN!!!

Of course they won’t do it because Arthur Blank and the front office of the Falcons know the same thing we Vick supporters know; and that is Michael Vick will be playing QB in the NFL again. And they will not release him unconditionally because they do not want their worst nightmare realized — MV in a Bucs uniform.

But yet I still urge you clowns to please, please, please, have the Falcons release Vick outright. Do it!!!!!!!

By NY Freddy

September 15, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Bring back Mike Vick !!!

By FalconFan

September 15, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

hope this helps with the “bring vick back”crap.

It’s been a hoot reading and listening to pundits and armchair legal analysts speculate on the fate awaiting Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick on charges of illegal dogfighting.

First the easy part: You can expect Vick to be handed a harsher sentence than the one year being bandied about by some observers.

The judge has already said the acts described by Vick’s co-conspirators suggest “aggravating” circumstances. Often that means a sentence more harsh than lenient.

With Vick as the major, if not only, source of funding for the operation, it’s likely the judge will view him as the ringleader of the enterprise.

The federal guidelines generally suggest a sentence of anywhere from 12 to 18 months for the crime to which Vick will plead guilty. My guess is that the judge may well hand down a longer jail term. Why? Because the men who pleaded guilty ahead of Vick will probably get the stiffer end of the suggested sentencing range, or about 18 months.

Our national surveys show that most Americans support a “strong penalty” for Vick. When asked why, few said his celebrity status had anything to do with it. Most said he should be handed a long jail sentence because they believe his codefendants couldn’t have financed the dogfighting ring, so Vick must have. And remember, beyond the actual fighting, there was unimaginably sadistic treatment of dogs going on.

My guess is that the judge’s thinking will be more or less in line with the general public’s opinion.

Now let’s look beyond the legalities. When, if ever, will Michael Vick play pro football again? Let’s combine a little legal analysis with some public opinion.

The National Football League has an established policy that a player can be banned from the league for life if that player associates with gambling in a way that discredits the league.

The sworn statements entered in court by two of Vick’s co-conspirators last week said Vick bankrolled the gambling operation that surrounded the dogfighting ring. Detailed information has been entered into the legal record that describes approximate dates of the fights, dollar amounts wagered and deplorable acts against those dogs judged incapable of winning.

Many analysts are hanging their hats on what Vick reveals in his statement of facts when he pleads guilty before the court, or on whether local prosecutors plan to charge him with gambling. That would make a lifetime ban from the NFL more likely.

The truth is that the courts will probably have no impact on NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s ultimate decision. Over and again the NFL has said it’s waiting for a report from the league’s own highly regarded security team. And Goodell has urged the Atlanta Falcons to take no action against Vick until the league’s investigation is complete.

Guess what? That report is likely complete, and will probably say that Vick associated with gambling in a way that, to put it mildly, “discredits the league.”

That means a lifetime ban for Mike Vick.

You might ask why Goodell would take such a hard stand. But the more you look at the situation, the more his reasons are plain.

First, what had been divided opinion over Vick has consolidated into a general agreement among the public that he broke the law and participated in a viciously cruel activity.

If Goodell is to rid the league of Vick, now is the time to strike. Sympathy will grow for Number Seven over time. Such a strict punishment might not be as acceptable to the public in several months.

More importantly, Goodell wants to avoid having a renegade NFL owner bring Vick — along with animal rights protesters and others with long memories — back into the league, even if it’s three or four years from now.

Yes, it’s possible that if the sentence is long enough, Goodell might take the route of adding a year’s suspension from the league following Vick’s release, thus effectively making a comeback far less likely.

But Roger Goodell doesn’t seem to want to wait until the final sentences are handed down in the coming months. It seems he’s relying on the findings of his own league security team, which apparently knows all the facts surrounding the situation, to make his decision. And that probably means “Bad Newz” for Mike Vick.

Matt Towery served as the chairman of former Speaker Newt Gingrich’s political organization from 1992 until Gingrich left Congress. He is a former Georgia state representative, the author of several books and currently heads the polling and political information firm InsiderAdvantage. To find out more about Matthew Towery and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2007 CREATORS SYNDICATE, INC.

By greatone

September 15, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Marie, wake up, They do anything until he done serving time. He can also face up to 10 ten years on state charges which are complete different charges from his federal charges, He will never play again. He does not deserve to play again. If we where felons, we would have a hard getting a job anywhere at all. All vick supporters vick will never ever play football again. The thing he play with is between 6 to 12 inches long if know what I mean. So gang up on Ryan all we want. Ryan will be great in time. At least he knows the playbook. Something vick was to stupid to learn., and that’s why he couldn’t change plays at the line. Ryan did have a good 2nd half. We don’t want to remember the good he did in the game, just the bad. I guess because he’s a white man. Racist a@@ holes!

By HEAVY D

September 15, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

REALLY THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS IS RYAN IS NOT MAKING EXCUSSES FOR HIS PLAY UNLIKE SOME PLAYERS WE HAVE HAD IN THE PAST. THAT SHOWS HE IS A REAL PRO AND THAT HE WANTS TO IMPROVE AND LEAD THIS TEAM!

By Dave

September 15, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

I think the play calling, especially in the first quarter, was as responsible for this loss as anything. We should have eased Ryan into his first NFL road game with run plays, misdirection, and simple short passes until he settled down a bit. I loved the way he and the team kept battling though. Baker’s early exit and Grady’s absence sure didn’t help matters either. Overall, next week should look a whole lot better. Go Falcons

By Ryder

September 15, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Wow, thanks for the book FalconFan. Unfortunately on this blog the people’s attention spans are so short that they lack the intelligence to fully understand what you wrote. It’s very informative and personally I do hope Goodell bans Vick from the NFL for life. That way, the morons who come on here crying for their Savoir will have to see him in another league.

See, Goodell doesn’t need Vick to sell tickets and ratings the way David Stern needs his “stars” in the NBA. Seriously, they could catch Lebron James with cocaine, weed, and an assassination plot on the President and he still will let James off the hook because he’s desperate for ratings.

Goodell knows he doesn’t need Vick around anymore causing even more trouble when he’s released from both Leavenworth and from VA (however long that will be) so he’ll say sayonara and then that’ll be it.

In the meantime, why isn’t anyone giving credit to the Tampa defense? They do have some talented players on there believe it or not. Ryan took lick after lick yet still tried to keep Atlanta in the game. He’ll overcome this soon enough, as will the rest of the team.

By Marie

September 15, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Greatone,

I am woke and I want to know if you have called the Falcons or sent an email to AB. I am deadly serious GreatOne, please ask Arthur Blank and the Falcon’s front office to release Michael Vick with no strings attached.

But as far as the state charges that you’re still having a wet dream about — you can get over those. They will go nowhere. Write this down ‘O, Greatone’ a judge will throw out the state charges because of a little thing in the US Constitution called “double jeopardy”. Learn it, live it, and love it.

BTW — You cannot call yourself “GreatOne”, that moniker is already taken by Mark Levin.

By Marie

September 15, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Ryder and FalconFan:

So you guys will not be disappointed when it doesn’t occur, let me tell you now. Roger Goodell has NO INTENTION of banning Michael Vick from the NFL. If he wanted to do that; he could have done it already.

This is an excerpt from his actual letter to Vick — so you two and others can get a clue: “I will review the status of your suspension following the conclusion of the legal proceedings. As part of that review, I will take into account a number of factors, including the resolution of any other charges that may be brought against you, whether in Surry County, Virginia, or other jurisdictions, your conduct going forward, the specifics of the sentence imposed by Judge Hudson and any related findings he might make, and the extent to which you are truthful and cooperative with law enforcement and league staff who are investigating these matters.”

And when asked about Vick a few weeks ago on ESPN; the man practically said he wants to see any player who has had problems in the past come back to the league and be productive players and citizens.

Finally, the OWNERS run the league and not Roger Goodell. And if there is an owner who wants Vick’s services after he is released from prison (especially an owner with a top-notched team)then Vick will be suiting up; regardless of Goodell’s personal opinions.

Jerry Jones offered and signed Tank Johnson and Pacman Jones contracts long before Goodell reinstated them. Goodell serves at their pleasure — not the other way around. Vick will be back (yippee!!!!)

By NFL_BUST_COMMISSION

September 15, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Matty Ice - it has been brought to our attention that you received a 72-million dollar contract.

Based on the disclaimer and your performance on yesterday, we are forced to ask that all salary entitlements be voided and our accountants will be in contact with you shortly.

You will have 7-days to dispute this transaction. Have a nice day.

Sincerely,

NFL BUST COMMISSION

By Spud Webb

September 15, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Darrin “The Vent King” GREAT POST. Marie, there’s a thing called the salary cap in the NFL, check it out, let me know if you can comprehend a “cap hit”. Also, Goodal (he’s the commisioner in the NFL, lol) will suspend Mike Vick for AT LEAST another year from the NFL when he get’s out of prison. Get over it. Those are the facts. When he’s out of prison and his suspension is over, Blank will release him, believe me. I was actually proud of the falcons. They didn’t quit. You knew that Ryan was going to have a tough day with Monte Kiffens D. That said, I do question some of the play calling, but just like Ryan, Smith is in his first year and he and Mularky will work the kinks out. There is hope. Ryan did show much improvement in the second half. Overall everyone played hard and this team will get better and better. The Chiefs are also a good cure for what ales you. See the Raiders, horrible and still beat up on KC. The offensive line will have to get better and Ryan will have to get his reads better. Funny how one week Ryan’s arm is strong enough, this week it’s not? Make up you’re minds folks. I’m guessing if they beat KC, Ryan’s arm will be strong enough again!! lol, GO FALCONS.

By TAMPA BAY

September 15, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 15, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this

Mike Vick couldn’t audible because no one could understand him! Coach Reeves got him help with his speech but it didn’t help very much. Vick is in Leavenworth Prison, convicted of a felony. He’s not here and he’ll never play in the NFL again! Therefore, stop your whining about that dog killin’, drug smokin’, lyin’ criminal. He’s gone and he’s going to stay gone!

———WHERE IS THE WIN YOU PROMISED? LOL You are truly an idiot :)

By MATTY ICE

September 15, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

I want to go back to Boston College. I didn’t know the NFL players were going to tackle me so hard. I’m so afraid.

Did you see me throw that ball down before the BIG lineman came near me? Hell, there was no way I was going to be hit by that “mean” guy.

I quit on the field - that’s right I admit it. Damn, Vick was a little guy and he never laid down or threw the ball away to avoid a big ole mean lineman.

I’m so scared - oh God help me. Make the mean men stop…..P L E A S E

By Spud Webb

September 15, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

I loved the way Mike Vick played and thought he was under appreciated in Atlanta but… He’s in jail now. I’m not sure why folks on these blogs and at the dome can’t understand that? VICK WILL NEVER BE A FALCON AGAIN. Why is so hard to understand that? Why do so called “fans” bag on the Falcons or Ryan? Did the falcons push Vick to fight dogs and lie to the owner and the commisioner? Did Ryan do that to him? NO, mike vick did it all to himself and has admitted this. People have to let it go. The falcons paid him a LOT of money, his life was set, HE MESSED UP. NOBODY ELSE. If you’re a falcons fan then be happy, this GM and Coach finally have this franchise headed in the right direction after a disaster of a season last year. If you don’t like the falcons or ryan then don’t go to the games or to these blogs. VICK IS GONE, he messed up, his own fault, Plain and simple. GO FALCONS.

By TAMPA BAY

September 15, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

KEN STRICKLAND - You are a coward! All that fancy “waste of time” facts you provided “unpaid analysist” and you are not man enough to show your face.

Typical :)

By TAMPA BAY

September 15, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

By Spud Webb

September 15, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

I loved the way Mike Vick played and thought he was under appreciated in Atlanta but… He’s in jail now. I’m not sure why folks on these blogs and at the dome can’t understand that? VICK WILL NEVER BE A FALCON AGAIN. Why is so hard to understand that? Why do so called “fans” bag on the Falcons or Ryan? Did the falcons push Vick to fight dogs and lie to the owner and the commisioner? Did Ryan do that to him? NO, mike vick did it all to himself and has admitted this. People have to let it go. The falcons paid him a LOT of money, his life was set, HE MESSED UP. NOBODY ELSE. If you’re a falcons fan then be happy, this GM and Coach finally have this franchise headed in the right direction after a disaster of a season last year. If you don’t like the falcons or ryan then don’t go to the games or to these blogs. VICK IS GONE, he messed up, his own fault, Plain and simple. GO FALCONS.

**WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT - VICK IS COMING TO MY TEAM. HE DOESN’T WANT TO PLAY FOR A BUNCH OF LOSERS. SO YOU ARE RIGHT - HE IS NOT COMING BACK.

By Spud Webb

September 15, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Tampa Bay maybe so, but it won’t be for a few years. He will get suspended when he’s released from prison. I’d pay to see chuckie lose his sh*t with Vick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! that would be some good sideline drama!

By mars

September 15, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Marie, Double Jeopardy does not apply in this situation. This is a whole new ball game. Mr. Vick WILL have to face justice, at least for the dog fighting charge. Thanks to people like you, he will likely never face justice for the damage he’s done to this franchise or it’s fan base.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 15, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Vick is not facing dog fighting charges in Virginia. He’s facing two counts of causing the death of a canine. Each count is a felony and punishable by five years in prison.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 15, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Hey Tampa Gay, your team won but they aren’t going anywhere. Though the Falcons lost, they played as a team and they were in the game until the last couple of minutes. Ryan will become an excellent quarterback, while those two hacks on the Bucs are as good as they’re gonna get. Go sit back down on your dildo girl!

By Marie

September 15, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Spud Webb — please do some GENERAL RESEARCH before you try to insult me.

What is a cap hit? If a team releases or trades a player during the offseason, they have to accelerate the remaining portion of the prorated signing bonus. Let’s say that the team cuts a player May 1 in the second year of a four-year contract that has a $4 million signing bonus. They have to take a $3 million cap hit that year. If they release such a player and he is claimed on waivers, the same formula applies. There is a benefit to releasing a player after June 1. After June 1, the team only has to take the $1 million portion of the signing bonus applied to this year’s cap. They can then take the remaining $2 million hit next year. But if that player is claimed on waivers, the cap hit comes this year.

NONE of this applies to Michael Vick because he cannot receive his contract bonuses since he is ineligible to play. And no team can claim him on waivers because he is ineligible to play due to his indefinite suspension. In addition, the judge has already ruled that MV does not have to repay the Falcons for the bonus money he has already received (which by the way Arthur Blank and Rich McKay claimed was the only reason they had not previously released him).

So there is absolutely no reason for the Falcons to retain him on their roster.

And Mars his lawyers will be making that exact argument to the commonwealth of VA. The only reason Vick is serving time (since he was a 1st time offender) is due to the killing of dogs; if not for that he would have been given a suspended sentence according to federal prosecutors. Even if you get your wish and he is indeed prosecuted under federal law, according to legal experts it is unlikely he will serve any additional time (as a 1st time offender) and the judge will fine him and count his federal imprisonment as time served.

By Spud Webb

September 15, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

I stand corrected Marie. You’ll get you’re wish when the dog whisperer gets out of jail, he’ll be released by the falcons and can go wherever he wants. Not sure why you’re so angry that Mike was fighting dogs? You mad at the falcons for his flop or you mad at him? Just not sure where you’re anger comes from? Should the falcons just waited until Mike gets out of jail to make football decisions or did you want them to move forward? I’m serious, why are you so angry at the falcons or ryan or whoever you’re angry at?

By Marie

September 15, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

Spud, Spud, Spuddie:

I am so sorry you mistake my tone for anger. I am the most happy, peaceful and serene person you will ever find. I just think those who are still making nasty comments about Vick should hold Arthur Blank to his word and make the Falcons take action against him by releasing him; do not let Artie double-cross you guys by “possibly” bringing back Vick in the future. Afterall, he has never, ever ruled out that possibility each time he has been questioned about that very idea.

No where in my blog posts have I once criticized the Falcons for moving on and making Matt Ryan their QB of the future. That is their right. And I wish him and the organization all the best. I am a native Atlantan and I love my city and all its teams; so I will be the biggest screamer if and when the Falcons win a SuperBowl.

However, based on everything I have read about the whole Vick saga (and the legitimate questions that still exists in my mind) — I think the man got a raw deal from the NFL and the federal government. So when he is released I want to see him back in the NFL with the team of his choice.

And if Arthur Blank legitimately wants Vick as a Falcon, then he should say so and stop playing games. If he does not, then release the man on waivers now so EVERYONE in this city can move on to the next chapter.

By crabapplejoe

September 15, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Manny wrote We can debate about the merits of Vick, his charges, his QB performance, etc. but if Vick was here, the game would have been different: Pleez…I remember a couple of years ago in Tampa when Vick threw two interceptions from the Buc’s one yard line to lose the game. I think that was right after he threw for just over two hundred yards in Miami and proclaimed himself a “bona fide” passing quarterback in the NFL…give me a break.

By Steve T

September 15, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

I for one pick thought the Falcons had a since Brain was the QB for the BUCs. I had said if the falcons do not win they are in trouble when they face a top NFL team. Brain is a QB that can complete short passes and the Defnse should be able to jump anything long.

People said how well Ryan did in the second half do not know defense. The Bucs played a prevent defense in the second half. In other words, they kept every thing in front of tem until they got in the red zone and then they slammed the door shut. The Bucs did not have to gamble on D. Wake up people.

By greatone

September 15, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

marie, stopping taking your cold showers about vick coming back. It is over, get over it you moron. Ryan will be the greatest QB in Falcons history when is all said and done.now after you read this go take your cold shower at get out of your system about vick coming back. Ryan as arrived. Write this down Vick will serve more time. His trail will start after gets out of prison for these charges.

By Ryan Who?

September 16, 2008 6:18 AM | Link to this

LMAO! Seems like #7 is STILL dictating these blogs. LOL Ummmm, who’s that #2 guy? 5 years from now, MV will STILL be the subject in Falcons blogs, because everybody else is just not interesting to the “fans”…can’t ya tell?

By stendec

September 16, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

Why the surprise? Falcons are nothing but thugs. Every one of them. Arrests are norm not exception! Character football players win. Quality football players always compete. Professional football players never quit. The Falcons meet none of those qualifications! Another Falcon arrested? Whoop-de-do! Hardly stop the presses material. Gutless wonders went belly-up in Florida. Failed to dent end zone. What a shock! New coaches dumb as dirt! New quarterback is a Joey Harrington clone. Defense is more porous than Kari Lehtonen. Owner is embarrassment to himself. Overall worthless franchise going nowhere. I have watched this disaster since the first kickoff of the first game. This bunch of prideless losers far worse than expansion Falcons. Ouch! Oh well, best to all. To Hell with Falcons!

By bigeasy830

September 16, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

By Ryder, or should it be By got rode on, seems like you are still made at your domestic partner and that lack of reach around thing. But any way, none of you were saying he is just a rookie last week. And I would not be so quick to believe that he will have a great game this week. he has been exposed for having a weak arm. Matt ryan cannot complete a pass if he has to throw the ball more than 40 yards in the air. Herm Edwards is a terrible head coach but he can scheme. I am will to bet that KC will prees the recievers and force them outside and dare Matt Ryan to throw it out there. If that happens, pick 6. The falcons win 4 games or less this year and you “got rode on”, Mr. Double jointed in the jaw bone, will find a way to blame Matt Ryans terrible play on everyone but him. It also sounds like many of you love the “over seer”, Roger Goodell. But he let Adam Jones back when Jerry Jones reminded him on who he works for. I would not bet the farm that you have seen the last of MV7, and if Matt Ryan continues to suck, I wouldn’t bet the farm that you have seen the last of MV7 in a Falcon uniform. By seasons end most of you Matt Ryann fanatics will not be supporting this team. Over/Under at least 4 Falcons TV lackouts. More blackouts than wins.

By Vick Supporter

September 16, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

No Vick = Losing Season

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 16, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Vickjocksniffer, the Falcons were 15-17 the last two seasons Pariah was here. He’s in prison for his crimes ande he’s going to be in prison a while longer. The Falcons are going to be much better without his dumb a*.

By a1andonly

September 18, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Ain’t nothing wrong with blowin’ trees, so stop saying “drug smoker”. Crack is a drug. Mike and many other people just like to get their minds right. Next, i saw potenial in Matt, but he shouldn’t be starting right now. He’s our big investment, $70,000,000!?!?!? If he gets hurt once its a wrap. Really, the QB that should be starting is Shockely. He gives us the best chance of winning this season (or have a winning record). DJ has agility, speed, awareness, arm strength and some NFL experience under his belt. We were smart for keeping him. I guarantee we’ll need later on down the line this season. Plus, this would allow Matt to watch the game and get adjusted. Don’t worry Matt fans he’ll still be on the roster. DJ wouldn’t take his spot permanently…..Or would he?!?

By a1andonly

September 18, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Ain’t nothing wrong with blowin’ trees, so stop saying “drug smoker”. Crack is a drug. Mike and many other people just like to get their minds right. Next, i saw potenial in Matt, but he shouldn’t be starting right now. He’s our big investment, $70,000,000!?!?!? If he gets hurt once its a wrap. Really, the QB that should be starting is Shockely. He gives us the best chance of winning this season (or have a winning record). DJ has agility, speed, awareness, arm strength and some NFL experience under his belt. We were smart for keeping him. I guarantee we’ll need later on down the line this season. Plus, this would allow Matt to watch the game and get adjusted. Don’t worry Matt fans he’ll still be on the roster. DJ wouldn’t take his spot permanently…..Or would he?!?

By a1andonly

September 18, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Have you noticed, the Falcons rating on Madden 09’ is 67….When you “sign” Shockley (Yes, sign him. He’s not even on the team)…it goes up to 83. just a though. And i’m not a dog fan either….

By hudge11

September 18, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan had over 4300 yards passing at Boston College his final year. If you talk about his arm strength how did he do that feat, something which MV7 never could or did reach in college or the pros. The Falcons need an immediate upgrade on the play calling, it’s the same thing like with the Braves, Bobby Cox is one of the best managers ever, but he isn’t worth a hoot when it comes down to strategy, given he has lost a lot of pitchers this year, but even though countless times the Braves will be ahead and Bobby will go to the bullpen at the wrong time and select the same pitcher over and over again who can’t do the job. Coach Smith unless he changes things, will do the same as Cox always make the wrong play or move at the wrong time. Finneran should be starting and Thomas Brown when healthy should be in the game along with Snelling more often, move Brooking to 2nd string linebacker and play only on passing downs as he can no longer make as much of an impact tackling. Falcons should also find a way to get Shockley into the game as well.

By AGTFan

September 19, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Wow. Anyone still calling Atlanta “the city too busy to hate” obviously never read a Falcon blog.

You got that one right. Maybe it should be the city too busy hating to make intelligent comments about football.

This must be the stupidest blog on the net.